Leon Balogun to miss Nigeria’s midweek friendly

Balogun Leon Aderemi of Nigeria challenged by Lebo Mothiba of South Africa during the 2019 African Cup of Nations Qualifier match between South Africa and Nigeria at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg on 17 November 2018 ©Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

by Graeme Jackson

Monday Nov 19, 2018. 10:00

Defender Leon Balogun has been ruled out of Nigeria’s midweek friendly international against Uganda due to injury.

The Super Eagles and the Cranes – who both secured safe passage to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations this past weekend – will meet at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba on Tuesday evening.

Balogun played for Nigeria in their 1-1 draw with South Africa in Johannesburg on Saturday and picked up a slight knock, ruling him out of the clash.

He is expected to return directly to England to join up with his Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion.

“After picking up a slight knock in [Saturday’s] game, Leon Balogun has been excused from Tuesday’s friendly against the Cranes of Uganda,” a team official confirmed to Complete Sports Nigeria. “He’ll head straight to England from South Africa.”

The defender took to Twitter to express his delight at Nigeria securing qualification for Cameroon 2019.

“We made it – AFCON 2019! SA really tried, but we’re The Super Eagles! I’m really happy and proud to be part of this team, that brings joy to so many Nigerians by just chasing a ball,” Balogun posted.

“Not just back home but all over the world! Thanks for the amazing support, love always, LB.”